Ecumenical gathering for peace brings together Christian leaders in Kuwait
The event was not only attended by Christians from different traditions, but also by several Muslims, Kuwaiti citizens and religious, highlighting a spirit of interreligious sensitivity.
An emotional ecumenical prayer gathering for peace in Kuwait and across the Middle East, held at the Catholic Church, Holy Family Co-Cathedral in Kuwait City, brought together religious leaders from the various Christian churches and denominations present in the country.
The event, held on Tuesday, April 28, was attended by numerous ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps from different nations, including the Apostolic Nuncio of the Vatican, Archbishop His Grace Eugene Nugent.
Together, they joined Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia, who presided over the gathering, “Prayer for the Land of Goodness – State of Kuwait,” in a united plea for the precious gift of peace.
“We lift our hearts to God at a time when wounds are many and cries of pain are rising in our region, in the Middle East,” Bishop Aldo declared.
Reflecting on the Gospel of the Sermon on the Mount, he emphasized that “to be peacemakers sometimes means going against the current, choosing dialogue when division prevails, and sowing hope when despair spreads.”
In his homily, he also offered prayers for the State of Kuwait, for His Highness the Amir, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, for His Highness the Crown Prince, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, as well as for the government and all first responders.
In his message to the assembly, he encouraged all present not to remain mere spectators, but to become active participants in building bridges of mutual understanding and communion.
He reminded them that it is not enough to speak about peace, but rather to embody it: “Blessed are not only those who speak about peace, but those who make peace.”
The gathering was not only attended by Christians from different traditions, but also by several Muslims, Kuwaiti citizens and religious, highlighting a spirit of interreligious sensitivity.
The ceremony continued with a symbolic ritual in which representatives of the various churches lit candles and offered prayers to God in different languages, asking that the light of hope may dispel the darkness marked by fear, uncertainty, and hatred, and open the way to a future filled with hope, prosperity, and stability.
